LIASA EXCO and branch members visiting specialist libraries, including the SABC Media Libraries

The SABC Media Libraries had the pleasure yesterday in welcoming a delegation from the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA), including the following EXCO members: Ms Ujala Satgoor - LIASA President; Ms Segametsi Molawa - LIASA President Elect; Mr Mandla Ntombela - LIASA National PRO; Ms Therese Els - LIASA NAtional Secretary and Ms Annamarie Goosen - LIASA Manager.

The LIASA delegation's road-show included visiting different types of libraries, and they wanted  to include a specialist library like that of the SABC! Their aim is to form an idea of the state of libraries and information services in South Africa. They would also like to share information with their staff members on burning issues.

The LIASA delegation was shown the the SABC Radio Archives, the SABC Record Library and the SABC Information Library. Because of time constraints the delegation was not shown the SABC Music Library or the Audio Restoration Section.

The delegation expressed a sincere interest in how the SABC Media Libraries give access access to their content, which includes audio (radio programmes and clips), as well as commercial music and information contained in books, magazines, newspaper and electronic.

It means a great deal to the SABC Media Libraries to be able to form connections with Information Professionals from across South Africa. As members of LIASA they appreciate the interest that was shown in their services. The specialised nature of the SABC Media Libraries' services contribute to a perceived isolation from their peers in the librarian and archivist fields.

The significance of the visit has highlighted the worth of the services once again, and gives an appreciation of the specialist services that are rendered at the SABC Media Libraries!

LIASA delegation in the SABC Radio Archives

Team Leader of Cataloguing and Sport Archivist
Johann Greyling addressing the meeting 

LIASA delegation with Ujala Satgoor

Justice Leshilo welcoming the delegation in the SABC Information Library

Monica van Deventer (Principal Librarian) with Justice Leshilo

Themba Mtshali demonstrating the Newbase scanning system in
the Newspaper Clipping Section (SABC Information Library)

LIASA delegation in the SABC Information Library 

Ujala Satgoor in the SABC Information Library

The SABC Media Libraries feel honoured to have shaken hands with the LIASA EXCO, as well as meeting some of the LIASA Gauteng South branch executive members.

Blog post and photos by Karen du Toit, Archivist in the SABC Radio Archives.